Raleigh Police Department Officer Charles Ainsworth, 26, is trying to bounce back after he was traumatically shot in the line of duty in January. It has been a tough year for Ainsworth, who spent months in the hospital recovering.
But a video tweeted out Monday shows Ainsworth working out with his physical therapist, Cheryl Bennett. Ainsworth looks focused and determined through sets of push-ups and medicine ball tosses. Bennett is happy with the progress Ainsworth has made.
Officer Ainsworth has given us the greatest gift of all this holiday season... a positive attitude and commitment to getting stronger! #AinsworthSTRONG #MondayMotivation #HappyHolidays pic.twitter.com/FoySnKWfev
— Raleigh Police (@raleighpolice) December 23, 2019
"He's doing everything he can," Bennett said. "When it gets hard, he comes back and tries even harder. He's always rising to the challenge and keeps a good, positive attitude."
Ainsworth was released from the hospital in April. In October, he completed the Oktoberfest 4-Miler, a 4-mile race in Raleigh.
"I've definitely gotten into better shape," Ainsworth said. "I have to get myself a six-pack!"
Ainsworth was investigating a report of a stolen vehicle on Jan. 9 at an apartment complex off Western Boulevard when he was shot.